Editors’ Notes

Sometimes a songwriter enjoys kicking back and not thinking about it. Here, Old 97’s leader Rhett Miller throws himself into a varied and surprising set of covers. Paul Simon’s “Homeward Bound,” Tom Petty’s “American Girl,” Elvis Costello’s “Brilliant Mistake,” and The Kinks’ “Waterloo Sunset” are given rough, acoustic renditions that suddenly sound more like Old 97’s alt-country and folk tunes than what they once were. Jon Brion adds electronic enhancements and a rhythm section to Robyn Hitchcock’s “Cynthia Mask” while subtly accompanying Miller on David Bowie’s “The Bewlay Brothers” and “Queen Bitch” and The Beatles’ “I’ll Cry Instead.” Dylan’s “You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go” can be clearly understood as a honky-tonk number. The Pixies’ “Wave of Mutilation” (presented as a medley with The Ramones’ “I Wanna Be Sedated”) features Pixies guitarist Joey Santiago. It’s proof that Miller has a good ear for the music of others.

Customer Reviews

Rich....

by
Gauss2002

Dear Rhett Miller - this album is incredibly rich and yet again you shine. Please don't ever stop creating new music but please would you do something about being so darn sexy.

Rhett is awesome

by
Ann

What did you expect? It's Rhett Miller. Of course it's going to be great. He never fails to provide us with great music.

Perfect

by
arh97

Rhett's an amazing performer, this is a great selection of songs, and his interpretations have tons of heart. Like everything he does, it's great.

Biography

Born: September 6, 1970 in Austin, TX

Genre: Alternative

Years Active: '80s, '90s, '00s, '10s

Texas native Rhett Miller is perhaps best known as the frontman of the Dallas-based alt-country band Old 97's, although he also pursued a critically acclaimed solo career during the 2000s. Formed in 1993, the Old 97's built a devoted following with their blend of country and power pop influences, which won the group a brief stay on the roster of Elektra Records. All four members also pursued side projects, but Miller's...